Many buyers are convinced that finding a reliable supplier means accepting tradeoffs. Reliable quality can mean longer lead times, and many shops have even eliminated expedited services entirely. But what if you didn’t have to choose between quality and speed?
At Approved Machining, we’ve built our reputation on precision machining, but our excellence extends beyond quality parts. We have the capacity and expertise to meet accelerated timelines and even expedites without compromising accuracy.
The key to quick turnaround lies in having the right information from the start—let’s explore the information we need to hit the ground running on your most pressing deadlines.
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Essential Files and Specifications for Fast Quoting
At Approved Machining, quick turn CNC machining begins with a fast quote. When we have all the information required, we typically aim to turn around quotes within 24 hours.
We offer multiple options for quoting. Our online portal, for instance, is a simple, user-friendly way to submit quotes, ensuring you submit all necessary information by requiring you answer a few critical questions. The portal adds quotes directly into our system and leads to a faster response from our shop. However, if customers prefer email, we welcome this method as well.
Every request should include a few essential pieces of information:
- Detailed PDF drawing
- 3D models (STP/SLDPRT formats)
- Material and finish requirements
- Vendor sources for hardware or purchased components
Of course, the more detail you provide, the easier it becomes to deliver your CNC machined parts quickly. Some helpful information includes:
Material and Finish Requirements
Material and finish requirements should be as detailed as possible. Requesting ”aluminum” alone would obviously require follow-up discussions, but even some more specific requests may not be detailed enough.
For instance, some customers may request “powder coat RAL 7047,” but even that may not be sufficient—in that case, we’d assume a generic 7047 would be acceptable, but that creates problems if the customer needed the color to match a Cardinal 7047 exactly and never clarified.
Purchased Hardware or Components
For parts requiring hardware or purchased components, supplying a reliable vendor or point of purchase is extremely beneficial to your timeline. This is particularly important for specialized or international options, as sourcing these items on our own can significantly impact lead times. If the search is too time-consuming, we may have to simply quote your part without the hardware.
Customer-Provided Items
If customers will be providing material, tooling, hardware, or completed subcomponents, this must be discussed before we send a quote.
Typical Lead Times at Approved Machining
Fast lead times are a focus in our shop, and we always try to maintain quick standard turnaround times. In addition, we do offer expedited services—although in these cases, complete information is particularly critical. By providing every detail upfront, you eliminate the need for follow up conversations and accelerate your time to delivery.
Precise lead times vary based on part geometry, quantity, and outside processing. A simple machined part with no finish and a low quantity will typically average 10 to 12 business days, although in some cases it can be faster.
Additional processes beyond CNC machining services will increase lead times. The average changes to timeline for some popular options are typically:
Metal plating: 3-5 business days
Powder coating: 5 or more business days
Wet paint: 10 or more business days
Why Speed Will Never Compromise Our Quality
For many shops, the risk of expedited work is overlooking critical details in the design. But at Approved Machining, quality is built into everything we do. We understand that delivering quick turn CNC machining services doesn’t mean cutting corners—it means maintaining precision while meeting tight deadlines.
We ensure accuracy by performing first-piece inspection after every operation, and before any shipment leaves our facility, we conduct a 100% inspection of all finished parts. This rigorous quality control process is standard for every project. Additionally, we offer First Article Inspection (FAI) services, providing detailed inspection reports for customers who require them.
How Quickly Do You Need Your Next Part?
The key to rapid manufacturing is eliminating potential delays through communication and preparation. By providing complete files, clear specifications, and vendor information, our machine shop can deliver your parts as fast as possible.
Request a quote today and see how we can quickly turn around accurate parts!
